Building STEPS is pleased to announce that Baudratte Djiogo C. and Isaiah Wildes are the recipients of the 2018 Charles R. “Dick” Ward College Scholarship. Both students are Building STEPS seniorsat Digital Harbor High School,selected for their outstanding academic achievements. Baudratte will attendSt. Mary’s College of Maryland in the fall, and Isaiah will attend UMBC (University of Maryland Baltimore County). Baudratte, who has a deep passion for mathematics and science, plans to pursue a career in engineering. Isaiah’s passion is programming and coding and plans to pursue a degree in computer science. Each student will receive a $20,000 scholarship.

Established in memory of Dick Ward, a South Baltimore business owner and community leader who recognized the importance of a college education, this scholarship focuses on qualities of leadership, community service and exemplary classwork. Recipients mustplan to attend a four-year college or university or pursue an associate’s degree at a community college in Maryland with plans to transfer to a four-year college or university.

“We are so thankful to the Wards for establishing this scholarship and providing a life changing opportunity for Building STEPS students,” stated Debra Hettleman, Building STEPS CEO.“Both recipients demonstrate wonderful leadership qualities and a strong commitment to higher learning. We are so very proud of them.”

Building STEPS is a nonprofit that exposes our city’s high school students to careers that rely on science and technology and equips them with the tools to propel them to college and career success.